Vector Diagram for Homework - Assistance and Solution

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around a vector diagram related to a physics problem involving conservation of energy and momentum. Participants are seeking assistance with understanding the relationships between vectors in the context of elastic collisions.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the use of conservation of energy and momentum in relation to the vector diagram. Questions are raised about the conditions for vectors to be perpendicular and the implications of elastic collisions. There is also uncertainty regarding the application of the Pythagorean theorem in this context.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants providing insights and questioning the assumptions related to the problem. Some guidance has been offered regarding the conditions for perpendicular vectors, but no consensus has been reached on how this relates to the vector diagram.

Contextual Notes

There is a lack of clarity regarding the specifics of the elastic collision described, as participants note that the problem does not specify whether it is perfectly elastic or partially elastic. Additionally, the original poster indicates they have provided all available information.

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Homework Statement



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Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


Please could someone check my vector diagram

could someone also help me with part (c)
 
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Part c.
Use conservation of energy.
 
azizlwl said:
Part c.
Use conservation of energy.

well:

0.5*m*u2 = 0.5*m*v12 + 0.5*m*v22

but how does this prove anything in relation to the diagram?
 
What is the condition for two vectors to be perpendicular to each other?
 
Please specify perfectly elastic or partially elastic ?
 
Steely Dan said:
What is the condition for two vectors to be perpendicular to each other?

there vector sum = initial magnitude
 
space_buster said:
Please specify perfectly elastic or partially elastic ?

does not specify - just states "elastically"
 
jsmith613 said:
there vector sum = initial magnitude

Well, that's the condition for conservation of momentum. It's not a direct proof that the paths are perpendicular to each other. A direct proof of that is to take the inner product (or dot product, depending on what you call it) of the two final momentum vectors, and ensure that the result is zero (that is the definition of perpendicular vectors).
 
Steely Dan said:
Well, that's the condition for conservation of momentum. It's not a direct proof that the paths are perpendicular to each other. A direct proof of that is to take the inner product (or dot product, depending on what you call it) of the two final momentum vectors, and ensure that the result is zero (that is the definition of perpendicular vectors).

well i have given you all the information I have
apparently it has something to do with Pythagrous but no idea what?
 

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